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Preventing Skin Cancer

Use sunscreen of SPF 30 or greater. Apply liberally.

Relaxing in the sun may feel good. But it isn’t good for your skin. In fact, the sun’s harmful rays are the major cause of skin cancer. This is a serious disease that can be life-threatening. People of all ages, races, and backgrounds are at risk.

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the U.S. But in most cases, it can be prevented.

Your role in prevention

You can act today to help prevent skin cancer. Start by avoiding the sun’s UV (ultraviolet) rays. And don’t use tanning beds or lamps. They are no safer than the sun. Taking these steps can help keep you from getting skin cancer. It can also help prevent wrinkles and other aging effects caused by the sun. Make sure your children also follow these safeguards. Now is the time to start taking steps to prevent skin cancer.

When you are outdoors

Protect your skin when you go out during the day. Take safety steps whenever you go out to eat, run errands by car or on foot, or do any outdoor activity. There isn’t just one easy way to protect your skin. It’s best to follow all of these steps:

Know that while sunscreen helps protect you, it isn’t enough. Sunscreens extend the length of time you can be outdoors before your skin starts to get red. But they don't give you total protection. Using sunscreen doesn't mean you can stay out in the sun for an unlimited time. Your skin cells are still being damaged. You should also wear protective clothing. And try to stay out of the sun as much as you can, especially from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.